Portable Workstations

Although hardware-based digital-audio recorders get smaller and more feature-laden with each generation, many recordists still shackle them to home studios. Why? These babies are made to move, and adventurous types can transport them to rehearsal spaces, live gigs, and band mates’ homes to lay down tracks. The six machines shown here can get you goin’ mobile, but keep in mind that each manufacturer makes several models, so check out their Web sites to find the best portable recording solution for you.

Although hardware-based digital-audio recorders get smaller and more feature-laden with each generation, many recordists still shackle them to home studios. Why? These babies are made to move, and adventurous types can transport them to rehearsal spaces, live gigs, and band mates’ homes to lay down tracks. The six machines shown here can get you goin’ mobile, but keep in mind that each manufacturer makes several models, so check out their Web sites to find the best portable recording solution for you.

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Korg D4

Eight tracks, amp models, drum patterns, effects, pitch correction, USB, and a CD-RW drive make this a winner if you want to burn rough mixes for your band after each session. $799 retail/ $695 street. bossus.com

Tascam DP-01FX

Two XLR inputs with phantom power allow easy use of condenser mics, eight tracks, effects, and USB for transferring mobile sessions to a computer workstation. $649 retail/$499 street. tascam.com

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Zoom PS-04

Pop this 4-track mini in a coat pocket, use the built-in mic to track basics (or use the onboard drum machine), and plug in for overdubs (with effects). $359 retail/$199 street. samsontech.com